Poland: Significant Immigration Policy Reform Proposed

Various ministries have proposed significant changes to Polish immigration regulations, with implementation dates set for 2025. First, the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy plans to introduce a comprehensive act that will fully digitalize work permit processes, require signed employment offers/preliminary contracts for application filling, eliminate the labor market test, and impose stricter documentation requirements on employers. Second, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs aims to tighten access to the labor market for foreign students as well as rules for enrolment of foreigners to study in Poland. Both ministries are also working on fast-tracking applications for entrepreneurs deemed significant to the national economy, with differing approaches. Additionally, they are proposing changes to the national visa process at Polish consulates, and could potentially require visa-exempt nationals to obtain a work visa after they obtain a work permit (whereas currently they can work under just their work permit). Additionally, criminal regulations regarding the employment of foreigners will be tightened, with increased penalties for violations. Separately, the Ministry of Interior and Administration is aligning Polish law with the new EU Blue Card Directive, which will redefine qualifications for applicants. These proposed changes remain in draft form and are still subject to further modifications. Nonetheless, the draft proposals provide an early understanding of the government’s likely direction – in particular signalling a shift toward a more regulated immigration model in Poland.